Netflix, renowned for its vast collection of movies and TV shows, is broadening its horizons within the gaming industry. While initially introducing games on mobile devices in 2021, the streaming behemoth is now taking a significant leap by extending its gaming offerings to a range of platforms, including smart TVs, smart devices, and personal computers.
Beta Trial Goes National in the U.S.
This move towards gaming began modestly with a limited beta trial in Canada and the U.K. exclusively for select Netflix subscribers in August. As part of its strategic growth plan, Netflix is now set to launch the trial in the United States, where it aims to assess the enthusiasm of its American audience for gaming content.
Retaining Subscribers Amidst Rising Costs
Netflix’s foray into the gaming realm goes beyond just expanding its content library. It serves as a strategic measure to retain its subscriber base in the face of steadily increasing monthly streaming fees. According to The Wall Street Journal, this expansion into video games is geared towards keeping subscribers engaged and satisfied.
Netflix’s Game Lineup
One noteworthy development in Netflix’s gaming venture is its plan to create a game based on the immensely popular series “Squid Game.” However, this is just the beginning. The company is actively considering producing games inspired by other hit shows like “Extraction” and “Black Mirror.” There are even whispers of a potential game influenced by the iconic “Grand Theft Auto” franchise.
Accessing Netflix Games
Netflix subscribers eager to delve into these gaming experiences have multiple avenues to do so. Smartphone users participating in the limited beta trial can enjoy gaming as a complimentary perk of their subscription. The games are accessible across various platforms, including Amazon Fire TV devices, Chromecast with Google TV, LG TVs, Samsung Smart TVs, Roku devices, Nvidia Shield TV, and Walmart ONN streaming devices. PC and Mac users can also access these games directly through Netflix.com, using their keyboard and mouse as controllers.
The Game Selection
As part of the limited beta trial, Netflix offers a sneak peek into its gaming library. Subscribers can explore titles such as “Oxenfree,” an interactive story game developed by Night School Studio, a company that Netflix acquired in September 2021. Another offering is “Molehew’s Mining Adventure,” described as a gem-mining arcade game.
Expanding the Game Library
Over the past couple of years, Netflix has rapidly expanded its library of mobile games. Some noteworthy titles include “Oxenfree,” “Solitaire,” “Cut the Rope,” “LEGO Legacy: Heroes Unboxed,” and “Twelve Minutes.” Furthermore, Netflix has ventured into creating games inspired by the popular series “Stranger Things.”
Netflix’s Vision for the Future of Gaming
Netflix’s Vice President for Games, Mike Verdu, underscores the company’s dedication to the world of gaming. He states, “By making games available on more devices, we hope to make games even easier to play for our members around the world.” With experience gained from companies like Electronic Arts, Zynga, and Meta’s virtual reality division, Verdu joined Netflix in July 2021, expressing excitement about bringing gaming joy to Netflix members. The company eagerly anticipates feedback from beta testers as it continues its journey into the gaming industry.